Community Education

Access 2 Independence has a history of providing educational and training services to community agencies and businesses throughout our 8 county region of Johnson, Linn, Washington, Henry, Iowa, Cedar, Jones, and Benton. Our staff enjoy meeting with community members and groups to discuss disability related topics to provide a more in depth understanding of the disability movement history and culture, as well as how the American’s with Disabilities Act and other disability legislation impacts our communities. Additionally, staff are always happy to present on the Independent Living services A2I provides our communities, or work with you to tailor a presentation to your needs. Below you will find a few examples of trainings/education that staff can provide:

Examples of Community Eduction:

Disability Sensitivity Training: This training is geared towards groups and agencies of all kinds, including city, county, non-profit, and for-profit agencies. There are currently 4 sections to this training including topics on language, disability culture, accommodations, and service/emotional support animals. With all 4 sections, the training is 3 hours in length with a 10 minute break in the middle.
Introduction to Peer Support: This program is designed with both agency staff and consumers in mind with an emphasis on introducing peer support, while cautioning against gossip. At around 30 minutes, this interactive presentation provides an opportunity for people to talk with A2I staff about their peer support experience.
Reaching My Own Greatness: A Self-Determination Curriculum by People First of Washington, this program is designed for school-aged youth to learn how to become self-advocates. A2I is happy to talk with classrooms and groups about this program, and can tailor the program to the needs of the class.
The Independent Living Philosophy: Interested in learning about disability rights history and culture? If so, then A2I would be happy to present on the Independent Living Philosophy and the timeline for disability civil rights. Join A2I on a journey through the past to recognize the challenges and achievements that have brought us to today.
Service and Emotional Support Animals: What’s the difference? With recent controversy surrounding various support animals, A2I has received multiple requests to present on Service and Emotional Support Animals. Our staff can demystify the legal jargon and provide a solid foundation on the different support animal types and how to tell the difference, as well as what questions you legally can and cannot ask an owner of one of these animals. While the legislation protecting these animals can be confusing, it is important for us all to understand in order to prevent any unintentional misunderstandings.
Braille printing/embossing services

Please Contact Access 2 Independence for More Information